SHU Grant Raises Problem Gambling Awareness

Funds will pay for speakers, increased accessibility to services, staff training and surveys

Sacred Heart University has received more than $5,000 from the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling to increase awareness of addictive wagering behavior on campuses across Connecticut. SHU will use the funds to host speakers, increase accessibility to services, train staff and conduct surveys.

“With everything we do, we try to be proactive rather than reactive. We simply want our students to know we have resources here to help,” said Brian Dolan, SHU’s recovery program coordinator.

In the last few years, with Connecticut and many other states legalizing sports gaming, wagering has become incredibly accessible. “With this new increase in accessibility, it is imperative that universities and organizations are aware of the issue and offer treatment,” said Dolan.

The grant will enable SHU to spread awareness about gambling addiction to students, faculty and staff. The new resources aim to create a dialogue around campus and educate faculty and staff so they can identify signs of problem gambling.

SHU recently hosted Craig Carton, a TV and radio personality, who addressed the issue. Carton shared his personal story of gambling addiction and spoke to SHU students and staff about responsible gaming.

SHU’s Collegiate Recovery Program offers a safe and supportive environment in which students battling addiction and substance use disorders can recover. “We will continue offering services for all,” said Dolan.

Photo caption: SHU students, faculty and staff pose for a group photo with guest speaker Craig Carton at the Martire Center.